By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña
Filipino-American guard Remy Martin showed nerves of steel and helped the Kansas Jayhawks overcome a 16-point deficit against the University of North Carolina Tar Heels, 72-69, to capture the basketball men’s US NCAA Division I title.
Martin’s clutch baskets in the last 10 minutes of the game electrified the whole Jayhawks squad who were playing catch-up since being down by 16 points in the first half.
The Fil-Am’s insane 11 points in the last 10 minutes including three key three-pointers and one acrobatic layup energized the whole crowd and helped them keep up with North Carolina’s high-octane scoring.
Tied at 65-all, Martin sized up his defender, took three dribbles, and surprised his defender by sidestepping to his right elbow for the game-leading three, 68-65.
The Tar Heels started the game waxing-hot while also getting hold of the shaded area, dominating the paint for points while swatting away several Kansas attempts.
Their aggressiveness going to the cup rewarded them with several and-one opportunities that also placed some of Kansas’ big men in foul trouble.
However, the Jayhawks adjusted in the second half and made their counter run offensively while also executing their revamped defensive schemes.
Aside from their dramatic fightback, Kansas’ come-from-behind 16-point victory is also the biggest comeback game in the national championship since 2008.
With the championship game finally over, Martin is yet to commit to joining the Gilas Pilipinas program after showing interest to play for the national team several years ago.
